Should I Let My Kids Ride Motorcycles?
Motorcycles can be thrilling but also dangerous for kids. In 2022, motorcycle accidents accounted for 15% of all fatalities (6,218 deaths).
As a parent, you’ll need to weigh the risks versus rewards of allowing your child to ride a motorcycle. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision.
The Dangers of Motorcycles for Kids
Riding motorcycles comes with inherent risks, especially for young, inexperienced riders. Motorcycle crashes are much more likely to result in severe injuries and death compared to car crashes.
According to IIHS data, the fatality rate for motorcyclists is 6 times higher than for passenger car occupants.
Kids lack the physical size and strength to properly control a motorcycle. Their smaller hands may not reach the brakes easily, and their lightweight could make the bike harder to stabilize.
Kids also lack the judgment and maturity to make quick decisions to avoid hazards on the road.
In addition, children’s bodies sustain injury more severely than adults in a crash. Their skeletal systems are still developing, making their bones more susceptible to fractures.
Traumatic brain injuries are more likely, too, since their heads are larger relative to their bodies. Around 70 in every 100,000 children suffer a TBI in the US each year, with TBIs more common in late teens as well as under 5s.
Contact a motorcycle accident attorney if your child is involved in a collision.
Starting Them Off Slowly and Safely
If you allow your child to learn to ride a motorcycle, start them off slowly in a controlled environment. Sign them up for a motorcycle safety course to learn the basics from a certified instructor.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation provides courses for new riders of all ages.
Kids should start on a small motorcycle or scooter, 50cc or less. Choose an automatic model, which is simpler to operate than a manual transmission.
Also require them to wear safety gear whenever riding, including a DOT-approved helmet, protective jacket and pants, gloves, and boots.
One study found that 25.9% of dirt bike riders didn’t wear helmets, which is extraordinarily dangerous!
Set Ground Rules and Supervise Rides
Establish clear ground rules before allowing your child to ride independently. Require them to take a refresher riding course every year to reinforce skills.
Limit when and where they can ride, such as daylight hours only, no highways, no passengers allowed. Ride along with them to supervise until you feel they are responsible enough to ride alone.
Consider the Legal Restrictions
Most states require motorcycle permits or licenses starting between ages 14-16. Many also have restrictions, such as no night riding or no passengers allowed for minor riders.
Review your state’s regulations regarding minimum ages, licensing requirements, and restrictions to ensure your child rides legally. Riding an age-inappropriate bike or without a license could result in injuries or tickets.
The Rewards of Riding
While motorcycles come with risks, they can also provide kids with rewards like independence, self-confidence, and family bonding. Riding a motorcycle at a young age teaches responsibility and focus.
Mastering the motorcycle can also give a child a sense of accomplishment. And riding together can provide bonding time and lasting memories.
With open discussion and agreed-upon limitations, motorcycle riding may be possible for your children to enjoy safely.
